Discuss in brief: Core areas covered by ISO 26000

ISO 26000 is the international standard giving guidance on social responsibility and is intended for use by organizations of all types both public and private sectors, in developed and developing countries. It provides guidance on principles of social responsibility, the core subjects and issues pertaining to social responsibility and on ways to integrate socially responsible behaviour into existing organizational strategies, systems, practices and processes. This is a guidance tool provided by the ISO which enables organisations to understand the meaning and significance of social responsibility. It is important to note that this is not a certification but only a guiding tool. Hence, organisations which comply with these standards are self-certified. It covers six core areas of social responsibility, including human rights labour practices environment fair operating practices consumer issues community involvement and development. This ensures a holistic approach to the concept of social responsibility and sustainable development. It intends to assist organizations in contributing to sustainable development. It is intended to encourage them to go beyond legal compliance, recognizing that compliance with law is a fundamental duty of any organization and an essential part of their social responsibility. It is intended to promote common understanding in the field of social responsibility, and to complement other instruments and initiatives for social responsibility, not to replace them. ISO 26000 is not a management system standard. It is not intended or appropriate for certification purposes or regulatory or contractual use.